University of Minnesota launches Cannabis Research Center

The University of Minnesota on Thursday launched the new Cannabis Research Center devoted to analyzing the public health effects of marijuana legalization and informing policymaking related to the drug.

The recreational marijuana law passed by the state Legislature this year included $2.5 million in annual funding for the university's School of Public Health to establish and maintain the center. U public health Prof. Traci Toomey, an expert on substance use control policies, will serve as the center's inaugural director.

"I am excited for the opportunity to lead the Cannabis Research Center and, alongside my colleagues at the School of Public Health, to conduct innovative research on the health effects of adult-use cannabis legalization on people and communities across the state, including prevention and treatment of substance use disorders, equity issues, education and decriminalization," Toomey said in a statement.

There isn't robust research on the public health effects of marijuana legalization; Minnesota was only the 23rd state to legalize the drug for recreational use.

The U's new center will seek to "lead the scientific community in cannabis research," according to its vision statement.

Among many focus areas, the center will research how cannabis affects underage users and interacts with other impairing substances, such as alcohol and opioids. It also will study equity issues in cannabis production, sales and use.

"We will work collaboratively with state and local agencies and community-based organizations to explore and identify the initial research priorities related to cannabis use in Minnesota," Timothy Beebe, interim dean of the School of Public Health, said in a statement.

"I am confident that, under Dr. Toomey's leadership, the [center] will provide the data and evidence our policymakers need to make informed decisions about cannabis to prevent inequity and adverse health impacts throughout Minnesota.